October is right around the corner. Time to start thinking about finding that perfect pumpkin. You could grab one from your local farmer's market or grocery store. But for a more memorable experience, head out East to a pumpkin patch. Many of these spots offer additional activities like hay rides and corn mazes so you can turn your hunt into a fun seasonal day trip.

Here are some tips for finding the perfect pumpkin. For decorating or carving only look for a pumpkin that is visually appealing, evenly a deep orange. The shape is just whatever appeals to you. If it grew on its side and has a flat spot, you can either make that the make or use it as part of your design! It should be free from cuts, soft spots, bruises. The flesh should feel hard, and not give easily. Infections can invade easily and cause rot. Make sure the stem is attached. Store it carefully, especially if you pick it from the vine yourself. Cure a fresh-picked pumpkin by keeping it in a dry place. Don't handle or disturb it. Curing toughens the rind, making it less prone to rot. Pumpkins will keep for months in a cool (50 F to 65F dry, low humidity environment; such as a cool, dry basement. If you like roasted or baked pumpkin seeds, you can save the seeds from any pumpkin!

Make sure you call ahead to confirm hours and pumpkin availability.

Stakey's Pumpkin Farm270 West Lane Aquebogue (631) 722-3467 Roam the 26 acre field and pick your pumpkins straight off the vine! With over 18 different varieties the whole family can find one they love.

Schmitt's Family Farm
26 Pinelawn Road, Melville (631) 271-3276
Schmitt’s has one of the most well-organized pre-picked fields of pumpkins, with the pumpkins organized by size.

Organics Today
160 Washington Street, East Islip (631) 650-4424
An organic pumpkin patch where visitors can pick pumpkins directly from the vine on their three acres.

Elwood Pumpkin Farm
1500 E Jericho Turnpike, Huntington (631) 368-8626
Most western pumpkin farm. The pumpkins are grown in our fields. You are invited to pick off the vine and experience how fresh a pumpkin can be.

Hank's Pumpkintown
240 Montauk Highway, Water Mill (631) 726-4667
The name of the farm says it all. Pumpkins range in size from mini to prize winners straight from the vine.

The Milk Pail
50 Horsemill Lane, Water Mill 631- 537-2565
Select your own great Halloween pumpkin from their pumpkin patch filled with all sizes, shapes and colors. They grow pumpkins from 150 pounds down to ½ pound.

Borellas Farm Stand
485 Edgewood Ave, Saint James 631.862.7330
They have been growing pumpkins for 58 years on their 53 acres. Take a hay ride out to the pumpkin patch and pick your pumpkin from the vine.

Fink's Country Farm
6242 Middle Country Road, Wading River (631) 886-2272
Straight from the vine,the pumpkin patches are filled with a large variety of pumpkins. They offer sales by pound or wheelbarrow full.